British anti-trans activist Kellie-Jay Keen-Minshull, also known as Posie Parker, has cancelled her trip to New Zealand, citing safety concerns and a lack of trust in the police and authorities to protect her.
Parker had planned to attend the hearing of a woman accused of throwing tomato juice at her during a protest that disrupted her ‘Let Women Speak’ tour earlier this year. However, she stated in a social media audio stream that her family and UK-based security advisers advised against the trip, deeming it unsafe and “impossible to police.”
Parker has also raised concerns about the integrity of New Zealand’s police force and customs officers, calling them “corrupt” and doubting their ability to ensure her safety. Despite the assurance from Auckland City district inspector Richard Sami that the police were prepared for potential protests and would ensure safety, Parker decided to heed her family’s request not to go.
Immigration New Zealand general manager Richard Owen confirmed that Parker holds a New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA), which allows her to travel to New Zealand without a visa. However, border officers would still need to grant her a visa and permission to enter upon arrival, considering any character concerns.
Eli Rubashkyn, the protester accused of assaulting Parker with tomato juice, pleaded not guilty to the charges in April.
